We Won't Stop Arresting Opium, Marijuana Dealers and smokers, police
The recent nullification of the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (Control) Act 2015 by the Constitutional Court has sparked mixed reactions from the public regarding the consumption of narcotics-related substances. However, the old law of the NDA is still in force, and law enforcement agencies are still empowered to tackle narcotics-related offenses under it.
Police spokesperson Fred Enaga has reiterated its zero-tolerance approach to the consumption of prohibited substances.
Enanga says all territorial commanders have been instructed to maintain or increase enforcement action against offenders and enhance deterrence efforts.
Last year, the police recorded a 67.7% increase in narcotics/drug-related cases, with a total of 2,797 cases reported countrywide. 4,818 suspects were arrested and charged to court, including 137 juveniles. Cannabis and cocaine remain the most commonly used drugs.
According to Part IV of the NDA, possession of narcotics without lawful excuse, smoking of opium or Indian hemp, use of premises by persons smoking opium or Indian hemp, and cultivation of plants yielding narcotics without consent of the Minister are all prohibited.
Enanga also emphasized that the negative impact of narcotics on physical and mental health, relationships, career prospects, and the wider society cannot be ignored.
The Uganda police force says it is committed to ensuring that drug dealers are brought to justice and that communities are protected from the harmful effects of narcotics and has encouraged the public to report any suspected narcotics-related activities to the police.
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